Starting a new tenancy in Northwest Territories can be exciting, but it also comes with important responsibilities for both tenants and landlords—especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Understanding who is responsible for what, how to request repairs, and what steps to take if issues arise will help you enjoy a safe and comfortable home during your lease.
Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities in Northwest Territories
Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)[1], both landlords and tenants have legal duties regarding the upkeep of rental properties:
- Landlords must keep the rental in a good state of repair, comply with health and safety standards, and maintain vital services (like heating, water, and electricity).
- Tenants must keep their unit clean, not damage the premises, and report necessary repairs promptly.
Maintenance obligations start as soon as you move in and last throughout your tenancy. For a detailed look at these rules, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
Types of Repairs: Routine and Emergency Explained
There are two main types of repairs you may encounter:
Routine Repairs
- Minor issues that do not threaten health or safety—e.g., leaky faucets, broken door handles.
- Usually handled within a reasonable time after notifying the landlord in writing.
- Tenants should never undertake major repairs without the landlord's approval.
Explore more at Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
Emergency Repairs
- Problems that make the home unsafe or unfit to live in—like no heat in winter, flooding, or hazardous wiring.
- Landlords must address these as soon as possible.
If urgent action is needed, visit Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for guidance.
Requesting Repairs: Steps and Official Forms
When an issue arises, follow these steps:
- Document the problem. Take photos, note the date, and describe the issue.
- Notify your landlord in writing. Email or hand-deliver a repair request detailing the problem and asking for timely action. Always keep a copy.
- Allow reasonable time for response. For non-urgent problems, landlords must respond within a reasonable timeframe. Serious emergencies require faster attention.
- If your landlord does not respond, you may apply to the Office of the Rental Officer.
Office of the Rental Officer Forms
- Form 1: Application to the Rental Officer
Form 1: Application to the Rental Officer
Use this form to ask for an order if repairs are not done or to resolve disputes about neglected maintenance.
Example: If you've reported a leak that hasn't been fixed for weeks, submit this form with documentation. - Form 6: Notice of Entry
Form 6: Notice of Entry
Landlords use this form to provide advance notice (at least 24 hours) before entering for repairs.
Example: Your landlord provides this form before sending maintenance workers to your unit.
Health and Safety Concerns During Your Tenancy
Maintaining your home isn’t only about comfort—it’s about safety. Tenants have the right to a healthy environment free of hazards. If issues threaten your health (such as mold, broken heating, or pests), report them promptly and review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for specific guidance.
Moving In: Inspections and Preventing Disputes
Conducting an inspection with your landlord at the start of your tenancy helps ensure everyone agrees on the property’s condition. Document any existing damage to avoid being held responsible for it later on. See the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for practical steps.
For more advice and the chance to browse rentals with helpful resources, Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily online.
FAQ: Maintenance and Repairs in Northwest Territories Rentals
- Who is responsible for repairs in my rental unit?
Landlords must keep the unit in good repair and meet health and safety standards. Tenants are responsible for keeping their unit reasonably clean and reporting problems right away. - How do I submit a repair request if my landlord ignores my messages?
Put your request in writing (email or letter), keep copies, and if there's no response, submit Form 1 to the Office of the Rental Officer. - Can my landlord enter my unit to make repairs?
Your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering, usually using Form 6, except in emergencies. - What counts as an emergency repair?
Any problem that makes your unit unsafe, like no heat in winter, sewage issues, or broken locks on exterior doors. - How quickly must landlords respond to emergency repairs?
Emergency repairs should be addressed as soon as possible, often the same day.
How To: Request Repairs or File a Maintenance Complaint
- How do I properly request a repair from my landlord?
Document the problem, send your landlord a written repair request, state the details and date, and keep a copy for your records. - What should I do if repairs are not done after my request?
If a reasonable amount of time passes with no action, submit Form 1 to the Office of the Rental Officer with evidence of your request and documentation of the problem. - How do I document maintenance issues for my case?
Take clear photos, save any correspondence with your landlord, and keep a timeline of events. - How do I contact the Office of the Rental Officer?
Visit their official website or call 867-767-9256 for forms and support.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords are responsible for most repairs and must maintain a healthy, safe rental unit.
- Tenants should report problems quickly and keep written records of all requests.
- Official forms and the Office of the Rental Officer are available if issues are not resolved.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Office of the Rental Officer – Northwest Territories (Forms, complaints, guidance)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
- Northwest Territories Legal Aid Legal Aid Services
- Find general rights summary at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
